The Bob Hitchcock Territory Shield remains in the hands of the Royals after a commanding 38–24 win over the Tuggeranong Vikings in Round 1 of the John I Dent Cup. In a six-try spectacle at Viking Park, a new-look Royals outfit announced their 2025 intentions with authority, delivering a powerful statement under new head coach Joe Kolo.

The defending champions exploded out of the gates with a dominant first 30 minutes, showcasing precision at the set piece and physicality across the park. Lineout supremacy proved a key advantage, with Darcy Fogarty towering above the contest and bagging two tries of his own. He was well supported by tries to James Bundy, Tom Hayes, Kye Oates, and Josh Myburgh, as the Royals capitalised on territory and possession.

Despite the early pressure, the Vikings showed resilience, staying in touch with three first-half tries to keep the scoreboard honest heading into the break. However, the Royals proved too strong in the second stanza, regaining control and sealing the match with clinical execution and superior structure.

While the result thrilled the travelling faithful, the victory was not without cost. Injuries to key players Tom Hayes, Chase Oates, Jarrah McLeod, and Dan Nelson have cast a shadow over an otherwise stellar start to the campaign.

With a bye scheduled over Easter, Royals will use the break to regroup ahead of their Round 2 clash with Wests. Due to the finalisation of works at Phillip, the April 26th home fixture will be played at Boomanulla Oval, with lower grades and Women’s 10s scheduled for Griffith Oval.

Coach Kolo couldn’t have asked for a better start, and the Royals faithful will be hoping this early momentum carries deep into the season.

Other Results
Women’s Premier lost 5 – 24

2nd Grade lost 28-29 

3rd Grade won 19 – 15

4th Grade won 25 -7

Colts lost 32 -36